1. Create a targeting strategy

In order to make a job search effective it really helps to be clear about who you are targeting and what you are targeting. This means being clear about what type of business or company you are looking to join, what type of role you want, in what industry and sector and so on. Make sure the target is clear to you and that you focus your job hunt around them.

2. Harness your network

Networking is a big impact and effective way to get you into your next role. Knowing the right people can get you places. Unfortunately many of us feel as though we don’t know anyone who can help us. Perhaps we know many people but not the right people. Says who? Don’t close that door. Take a harder, deeper look at your network and connections. What are you looking for exactly and who can help you to get there? Be creative about it and don’t be afraid to ask around.

3. Interview preparation

Interviews can be a scary thing for some of us. Some people find it a doddle and others find it very unpleasant. Being faced with 4 or 5 rounds of interviews can be daunting so it’s important to make sure that you feel confident and prepared. Do you homework! Read up on the company, the role, make sure you know who it is that is interviewing you and what to expect in the interview. Build your confidence around presenting and projecting yourself, articulating your talents and interests, and being able to really ‘work the interview’. If may help to role-play some interviews and run a few mock interview sessions with a Guide, a friend or an old colleague.

4. Know what you want

If you are not clear about what you want and why you want it – it will be very difficult to get it and convince others to give it to you! Spend time getting clear about what you actually want to do i.e. what role would be suitable to you, what you will enjoy, where you want to work, what you want from that role to be fulfilled, interested and passionate about it.

5. Know your value

One of the hardest things can be to get across your value to a potential employer or interviewer. In order to articulate and communicate your value well so that others understand it and appreciate you – you must first know and believe in your skills and talents yourself i.e. you need to know your own value before others will value you. So learn about yourself. Evaluate yourself. Get to know what you are good at, what you can do, what your skills are, what you are an expert in, what your strengths are and what you can bring to an organization. This will build your confidence and understanding in yourself and help you communicate this effectively when talking to others.

Nisa Chitakasem is the founder of Position Ignition – a careers company dedicated to taking you to the next step in your career. Nisa is passionate about helping individuals find the right career path for them whether it involves finding a more rewarding career, making a career change, figuring out the right career plan or being creative about career directions. Image: Shutterstock.